Guest Author: Calvin Bixler
As I start my architectural career, I was given the opportunity to intern at the office of Gaines Group Architects in Harrisonburg, Virginia through a career exploration program at Eastern Mennonite School. This small architectural firm has a big reputation for using design as a tool to build a stronger community. This was not my first internship through this program at EMS. I also had the privilege to learn from Gil Colman of Colman Engineering. At Colman, I learned how to use Civil3D and Autocad, helped conduct stormwater pollution prevention plan inspections, and mapped sites using GPS tools.
At Gaines Group Architects, I was challenged to think about how architecture can heal open wounds in a community and honor the past. I researched and developed a concept for the Roses shopping center in downtown Harrisonburg. The major consideration in my design was the history of displacement and “urban renewal” of the property and surrounding area. The result of my design includes an improved public transit stop, a parking garage as an alternative to the aging parking structures in downtown Harrisonburg, outdoor gathering and fitness areas, a rooftop garden and solar array, affordable housing, and rental spaces for existing or startup small businesses. The design also places storefronts along the road and sidewalk, providing a more lively and inviting atmosphere. The focal point of the design is a tower dedicated to the history of the Northeast Neighborhood.
I believe that architecture should respect the community and build stronger connections. If this property should be redeveloped, there should be an effort made to mend relationships with members of the Northeast Neighborhood broken during urban renewal. When development happens in a community, there should be discussion with community members about their needs. This will serve both the community and the developer.
The next stage in my career will be at Princeton University, where I hope to continue my studies in Architecture. No matter my final career destination, I know that the time I spent at Colman Engineering and Gaines Group Architecture will have served me well. I encourage all high school students to search out opportunities to test the waters for their future career before going to college. This is a chance to not only find what you love to do, rule out what you don’t want to do, but you could be a voice that changes how your community develops over time.
